US Airman Rescued by Special Forces

Steve Nisbet, a retired U.S. Air Force pararescueman and leader in combat search and rescue, shared his thoughts on the recent rescue of a downed U.S. Airman from an F-15E fighter jet. He discussed the operation carried out by Navy Seal Team 6 and how they effectively brought him to safety.

Delta Force and the 22nd SAS have formed an inseparable alliance, with the SAS recognized as Britain’s premier counter-terrorism unit. The history between these Tier 1 forces is remarkable. Delta Force, often seen as somewhat enigmatic, was inspired by the SAS and is entrusted with crucial missions for the U.S.

This elite unit even had a role in the operation to apprehend former Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.

SAS Insights on Delta Force’s Close Ties

Duncan Bailey, a former member of the 22nd SAS, appeared on Brent Tucker’s Tier 1 Podcast recently, where they discussed the deep respect and trust that exists between their forces in combat scenarios. It’s quite fascinating how that bond operates in the field.

Bailey noted that no matter where he travels, he instinctively looks for Delta personnel. He explained how having that connection—saying “Hey, this is my number, call me if you need help”—serves as a reassurance. It offers comfort knowing they share similar training and capabilities, emphasizing that if he needs to act, he’d do so alongside them.

The dialogue highlighted how intertwined the 22 SAS and Delta Force remain, both now and in the future.

The special operations collaboration between the U.S. and U.K. is indeed remarkable. The 22nd SAS stands out as an invaluable ally to Delta Force. When American operations pose significant risks, the SAS is ready to step in and assist.

Across different war zones—be it Afghanistan, Syria, or Iraq—those ties have continually brought the two forces together, often at a high cost.

It’s worth noting that the shared experiences of service members, such as SAS operator Matt Thongroe and Delta Force operator Jonathan Dunbar, who both lost their lives on duty in Syria, underscore the depth of this partnership.

The close relationship between these two units seems poised to continue, which is encouraging for the allies but perhaps concerning for those who oppose them.